He motions his arms up and down like pushing some machines and doing some curls, “A little of this and that [long pause]…You know I’m 80!”

I said, “Wow that’s awesome that you still work out–can I ask, how do you do it?”

He replies, “The key is to always keep going, and not to give up.”

I say, “Yes, but also I think it has a lot to do with the One Above.”

He nods in agreement, although still looking determined to keep himself pumping away in the gym.

As the elevator doors open I say, “Well, I sure hope you can keep going like this for another 80 years.”

He gives me a warm smile, and says, “I hope so too.”

Second story:

One of my colleagues at work is retiring after an amazing 51 years of service to the government.

Now this guy having been around awhile has a really nice engraving of the agencies seal hung on the wall in his office, and months ago, I had commented to him how beautiful and special it was and that “they don’t make them like they used to.”

He said, “Well you know what? When I retire, I’m going to pass it on to for safekeeping.” I thought that is nice, but also probably just talk as they say.

Well recently, he has announced his “big day” and so he stops by my office, and in his hands he is holding the beautiful seal engraving–he puts out his arms, handing it to me.

I was like, “OMG, I didn’t really expect this. This is great. Are you sure you want me to have it.”

You says, “Absolutely!” referring back to his promise a number of months ago. Then he pauses, obviously thinking for a moment, and says to me, “But you have to put in 51 years of government service also! [big smile]”

I said, “That’s a noble idea, but honestly, I think I started a little late for that. How about we go for 30 or so with G-d’s help?”

Anyway, thinking about these two events, I am not quite sure how these amazing people do it…years of doing, giving, and with a great attitude–and always a desire for another round to go. 😉